Archaeologists in Türkiye have made an extraordinary discovery in the ancient city of Hadrianopolis: a 1,600-year-old pendant featuring King Solomon on horseback, spearing the Devil. This rare artifact not only offers a unique glimpse into the religious beliefs of the Byzantine era but also highlights the city’s historical significance as both a religious and military center.
A Glimpse into Byzantine Beliefs
The pendant, which measures just a few centimeters in size, features Solomon, a prominent figure across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, depicted in a dramatic moment of triumph over evil. Solomon is shown on horseback, wielding a spear as he defeats the Devil. Along with the intricate image, the pendant bears an inscription that reads, “Our Lord defeated evil,” emphasizing its spiritual significance. Additionally, the amulet includes the names of archangels, further deepening its connection to religious practices of the time.
The Ancient City of Hadrianopolis
The pendant was discovered during excavations led by Dr. Ersin Çelikbaş, a researcher from Karabük University in Türkiye, in collaboration with the Heritage to the Future Project of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Hadrianopolis, located in Karabük province, was a bustling city from the Chalcolithic period (circa 3500 BCE) through the early Byzantine period. Known as the “Zeugma of the Black Sea” due to its mosaic similarities with the ancient city of Zeugma, Hadrianopolis was a hub of cultural exchange and military activity.
While the site has yielded significant finds, including baths, churches, villas, and even a theater, the discovery of this pendant is of particular note. The amulet’s unique depiction of Solomon, combined with its inscriptions, marks a significant moment in Anatolian archaeology.
The Rare Nature of the Find
Dr. Çelikbaş remarked on the rarity of the pendant in a press release from Karabük University, saying, “No similar examples have been found in this geography before.” The pendant is believed to have been used as a protective amulet, reflecting the religious and military atmosphere of the time. Solomon’s depiction in the amulet underscores his importance as both a king and a prophet, central to religious traditions in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
What the Amulet Reveals About the Byzantine Era
The Solomon amulet provides fascinating insight into the spiritual life of the people living in Hadrianopolis during the 5th century CE. Its design suggests that the inhabitants of this ancient city may have used religious symbols to invoke divine protection and victory over evil. This discovery not only sheds light on the region’s religious practices but also illustrates the broader cultural and historical connections between the Byzantine world and the surrounding regions.
With excavations at Hadrianopolis ongoing, archaeologists continue to uncover more about this once-thriving city, further highlighting its significance in the history of the Byzantine Empire.
